Testicular Cancer
Q: One of my friends was recently diagnosed with testicular cancer. I never really thought of that as being a problem since we’re all young, but now I’m starting to worry about every little thing. I’m not really comfortable asking him about how he figured it all out and I don’t want to seem like a hypochondriac, but what are the odds that a young guy gets testicular cancer? Is there a way to test for it?
A: First off, testicular cancer is rare, but it is the most common cancer in younger men (aged 15-35). This is why it is still important to do self-examinations of your testicles—just like women who do self-breast exams. The one obvious sign that you would feel is a lump or enlargement in either of your testicles. Other signs are a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum, an ache in the groin or the abdomen, a sudden collection of fluid in the scrotum, pain in a testicle or scrotum, back pain and enlargement or tenderness of the breasts. This type of cancer usually affects only one testicle. It is also a cancer that is highly treatable. See your doctor if you feel any lumps, swelling, or pain in your testicles, especially if this has been going on for more than two weeks.
When Do I Need a Mammogram?
Q: I don’t have an OB-gyn—I get pap smears through my regular doctor—and I’ve never really needed one, but I’m getting to the age where women are supposed to get mammograms. I always heard my mom joke about getting her boobs squished but never really understood how they work. My breasts are pretty small—I’m not even sure how they’d do it. Do they still do mammograms for women with A-cups? Are they really that necessary for those of us who are not so well-endowed?
A: Your breast size has nothing to do with whether you need or get a mammogram—even men sometimes get them! As for the age at which you should start getting them, The American Cancer Society women should get regularly checked (yearly) starting between 45 to 54. After 55 years old, it is recommended to go every two years. If there is a history of breast cancer in your family, then speak to your doctor, who may recommend you get one at a younger age, or more frequently. Granted, having a mammogram is not a pleasant experience, but it is over very quickly, within minutes. It is more uncomfortable than painful, and when it is painful, it is tolerable and only lasts seconds. The level of discomfort often depends on the size of your breasts and how much pressing has to be done.
Where to Get STI Testing
Q: I’m 19 years old and just recently became sexually active. I’ve been safe and used condoms with each partner, but I still think it’s responsible to start getting tested, at least until I settle down. I still see my pediatrician and I don’t have a GP yet so I’m not really sure where to go or who to ask (I live in the US). I don’t really want to get my parents involved. Where should I go get tested—and what should I expect? I’m not just nervous about finding one, I’m anxious about the procedure as well.
A: First of all, kudos for always practicing safer sex! If you are a student, you should look into the student health services department. Otherwise, you can check your local hospital’s Infectious Disease clinic. STI testing is also done at youth clinics and Planned Parenthoods. As a side note, the Centre for Disease Control recommends that women under 25 get yearly testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea. As to what to expect: Getting tested is usually quick and simple. You will most likely be tested for the common STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, Herpes, HPV, syphilis, and trichomoniasis. Testing is done either through a blood test, urine sample, or a swab of an infected area. It is also recommended that you get PAP tests every couple of years (this is done by a medical doctor).